The J-frames are great little guns that take a lot of practice to get good with. Getting one in .357 gives you the option to shoot all the different loads you want. Try them all till you find the one that you do the best with. The .357 is to much for most people in snub to shoot with any degree of accuracy. In due time with a lot of practice you will get good with the hotter loads. Just remember these are pure defense guns and are made for up close and personal.

I shoot a 640-1(stainless steel 23oz.) which I can shoot .357's through, but don't. I shoot .38+p's and that is all of the ass I want from a small gun. A .357 is not out of control with the gun, but second shots are a little wild. I shot a scandium weight gun once(12oz.?) and it was too much IMO. Try beating your hand with a brick, upward.

Many people swear by shooting .357's through the little guys. This is simply my experience. I'm 5'9, 160lbs.

I carry a 649 quite a bit. It is a .357, but I usually carry +P .38 Special Corbon DPX in it. It has a slighly longer barrel and you have the ability to thumb cock it without worry about snagging. It's what they call the "Bodyguard" style of revolver. With the stock grips (pictured) you can accurately shoot magnums, but I replaced them with rubber boot grips. I usually carry it in a Mika pocket holster.

choosing

SgtTurttle: Sir; my choosing SW638. I shoot Single Action and a most natural selection [after a lot of research] Could I have done as well with another?
Yes. The facts: Ability to conceal without hanging while removing from pockets, light weight, +P, ease of handling, ease of car, truck, ability of hitting my target. Unit is a good traveling companion. Having shot different models of this variety, having seen [for me] not much difference in shootability. Single action or double action work best for me.
It came down to pocketability. Can you hit your target? Yes. Does it require a marksman? No. Does it require above average ability. No. Does it require above average strength? No. Does it require you to be a "marksman" No.
Does it require you to practice don't they all.
Follow up with your decisions and experiences

I have a J frame equiv. in the Taurus 605.
.38 +P 125 Gr. Gold Dots chronograph at around 900 fps. out of it.

To achieve any greater velocity I have to use fullhouse .357's which I can use well but with definite discomfort after a few shots. Don't even consider a 12 ounce feather weight. They are for Masochists.

I want greater velocity so either carry an M&P40, M&P9 or will be carrying my new GP100.

If you go with a snubby I have found the Ruger SP101 to be more comfortable with Hot loads.